Pen to Patient: Revolutionizing Healthcare With Writing Education

HealthTech (11/29/23) Mazepa, I.

As part of their non-clinical training, healthcare professionals (HCPs) increasingly are polishing their written communication skills. Writing proficiency in the healthcare setting equips them to accurately document patient information — including history, treatment plans and progress notes — that likely will be referenced repeatedly as part of ongoing care. At the same time, strong writing skills serve as a foundation for clear and concise patient communication, from educational materials to post-care instructions, that breaks down complex medical concepts into language patients and their families can understand. The power of the written word also supports effective transfer of information among interdisciplinary team members; and it is invaluable for health care professionals who want to branch out into research, which involves generating papers and articles meant to disseminate knowledge and inform best practices. HCPs are finding writing education through curricula offered at colleges and other training institutes while they are still students; taking advantage of workshops and other continuous learning opportunities provided by their employers, including hospitals and clinics; and flocking online to virtual courses, webinars and other forums. Some of these offerings are broad-based writing classes, while others are designed explicitly with HCPs in mind and focus on topics such as medical terminology, patient confidentiality and ethical communication.

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